Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe

There is something irresistibly delightful about the Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe that brings the best of Italian tradition right into your kitchen. These cupcakes marry the tender, buttery cake with the creamy, dreamy ricotta filling and crunchy chocolate chips for a bite that bursts with every spoonful. If you love the classic cannoli but want something finger-food friendly and festive, this recipe will quickly become your go-to dessert for gatherings or simply a sweet treat to brighten your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The simplicity of these ingredients is what makes this Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe so inviting to bake. Each element plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and texture that complement one another perfectly, from the rich butter to the creamy ricotta filling.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft, tender cupcake crumb that rises beautifully.
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder: Your secret weapon for fluffy, light cupcakes that aren’t dense.
• ¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds rich flavor and moisture, ensuring a decadent bite.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just enough without overpowering the ricotta filling.
• 2 large eggs: Provide structure and help bind ingredients together.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Lends a warm, inviting aroma and depth of flavor.
• ½ cup whole milk: Moisturizes the batter and keeps it tender.
• ¼ cup sour cream: Adds subtle tang and richness to the cupcake texture.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese, drained: Forms the creamy base of the filling for authentic cannoli flavor.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the ricotta filling smoothly.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brightens the ricotta filling with fragrant notes.
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips: Provide delightful bursts of chocolate in every bite.
• 2 tbsp chopped pistachios (optional): Adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color that’s iconic to cannoli.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Whipped for the luscious frosting topping.
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream for a perfect balance.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the whipped cream with a comforting vanilla essence.
• Mini chocolate chips (for garnish): Sprinkle on top for extra chocolatey charm.
• Chopped pistachios (optional, for garnish): Adds a beautiful finishing touch with texture and color.

How to Make Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your cupcake tin with paper liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix will help ensure your cupcakes rise evenly and have a tender crumb.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is crucial for a light texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract for that classic sweet aroma that draws everyone to the kitchen.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add the dry flour mixture and whole milk to the batter, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which could make cupcakes dense.

Step 5: Mix in Sour Cream

Fold in the sour cream gently—this adds a subtle tang and helps keep the cupcakes moist and tender.

Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared cupcake cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cupcakes cool completely before filling.

Step 7: Prepare the Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Gently fold in mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios if using. This creamy filling captures the essence of traditional cannoli filling.

Step 8: Whip the Frosting

Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This light whipped cream frosting adds a perfect airy finish on top of the rich ricotta-filled cupcakes.

Step 9: Assemble the Cupcakes

Carefully cut a small hole or cone shape out of the center of each cooled cupcake. Pipe the ricotta filling inside each cupcake cavity. Then pipe or spread the whipped cream on top, and finish with a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips and pistachios for that iconic look and extra crunch.

How to Serve Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling mini chocolate chips and chopped pistachios on top of the whipped cream frosting gives your Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe that authentic flair and a lovely texture contrast. You can also dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

These cupcakes are a sweet star on their own but pair wonderfully with a cup of strong espresso or a glass of dessert wine. Fresh berries or a citrusy sorbet alongside them can provide a refreshing balance to the rich creaminess of the cupcakes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe on a rustic wooden board with scattered pistachios and chocolate chips around for a charming, inviting look. Alternatively, place each cupcake in a small decorative cupcake holder to elevate the presentation for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the ricotta filling fresh and the whipped cream stable. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cupcakes before adding the ricotta filling and frosting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then fill and frost just before serving.

Reheating

Since these cupcakes are best enjoyed chilled, avoid reheating. However, if you prefer them slightly less cold, allow them to sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving to unlock all their flavors.

FAQs

Can I substitute ricotta cheese with something else?

While ricotta is essential for that authentic cannoli flavor and texture, you can experiment with mascarpone or cream cheese blended with a little milk for a similar creamy filling, though the taste will differ slightly.

How do I prevent the cupcakes from becoming soggy?

Make sure to drain the ricotta cheese well before making the filling and add the moist filling just before serving. Store cupcakes in the fridge and keep frosting airtight to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.

Can this Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe be made dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, swap butter for a dairy-free margarine, use plant-based milk, and choose a ricotta alternative made from almond or coconut. The whipped cream can be replaced with coconut cream.

Is it possible to double the recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe scales perfectly. Just make sure to bake in batches as your oven capacity allows and maintain the same ratio of ingredients for consistent results.

What other nuts can be used instead of pistachios?

Walnuts or almonds are great alternatives and still bring that lovely crunch and subtle nuttiness to your cupcakes.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the heart of Italian favorites with a fun and fresh approach, the Cannoli Cupcakes Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a wonderful way to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something truly special. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t bake these sooner.

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